Houston is a big city with a lot to offer, but it’s not exactly known for its winter sports. If you’re a new Houstonian who loves to snow ski, you’ll need to travel a bit to find the best slopes.

Here are a few of the most popular ski destinations for Houstonians:

Red River, New Mexico

Red River is a small, charming town in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico. It’s a great destination for Houstonians because it’s relatively close to Houston (about a 9-hour drive) and it offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels. Red River also has a lively après-ski scene, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.

Taos, New Mexico

Taos is another popular ski destination for Houstonians. It’s located about a 10-hour drive from Houston, and it’s known for its challenging terrain and stunning scenery. Taos is also a great place to experience New Mexico culture, with its adobe architecture and Pueblo Indian heritage.

Colorado

Colorado is a bit further from Houston than New Mexico, but it’s worth the trip for its world-class ski resorts. Some of the most popular Colorado ski resorts for Houstonians include:

• • Aspen/Snowmass: Aspen is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world, and for good reason. It offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, as well as a luxurious village with plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife options.

• • Breckenridge: Breckenridge is another popular Colorado ski resort for Houstonians. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and its variety of terrain, which includes everything from beginner slopes to expert bowls.

• • Vail: Vail is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in the United States. It offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, as well as a luxurious village with plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife options.

Tips for Houstonian Skiers

If you’re a Houstonian who is new to skiing, here are a few tips to help you get started:

• • Take lessons. Skiing can be a challenging sport, so it’s a good idea to take lessons from a qualified instructor. This will help you learn the basics of skiing and avoid bad habits.

• • Start on easy slopes. Once you’ve learned the basics, start on easy slopes and gradually work your way up to more challenging terrain.

• • Dress warmly. Skiing can be cold, so make sure to dress warmly. Wear layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.

• • Take breaks. Skiing can be tiring, so be sure to take breaks throughout the day. This will help you stay safe and prevent injuries.

If you’re a Houstonian who loves to snow ski, there are plenty of great options available to you. Red River and Taos, New Mexico are both relatively close to Houston and offer a variety of terrain for all skill levels. Colorado is a bit further away, but it’s worth the trip for its world-class ski resorts.

No matter where you choose to go, be sure to take lessons, start on easy slopes, dress warmly, and take breaks. With a little planning, you can have a great time skiing on your next vacation.